#18,868
As the CDC graphic (below) illustrates, 2025 has been a particularly bad year for measles in the United States; the worst in the 21st century.
Once considered eliminated in the United States, in recent years we've seen an increase in cases fueled by falling childhood vaccination rates (see CDC Map below).
Measles also has a long incubation period (2-3 weeks), and a person may be contagious for up to 4 days before symptoms appear, aiding in its transmissibility.
While some cling to the idea that what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger we've recently learned that measles infection appears to dramatically reduce your immune system's ability to fight other pathogens; even those that you had previously developed antibodies against.
It's called Immune Amnesia - where the patient's T cells and B cells are greatly reduced - and it can last for several years. A few studies include:
Measles virus infection diminishes preexisting antibodies that offer protection from other pathogens
Immune amnesia induced by measles and its effects on concurrent epidemics
Measles vaccination and reduced child mortality: Prevention of immune amnesia or beneficial non-specific effects of measles vaccine?
Last month the CDC scheduled a COCA call on this topic, but postponed it until today. These presentations are often technical, and are of greatest interest to clinicians and healthcare providers, but are also archived and made available to the general public.
You'll find details on attending today's presentation below.
Clinician Update on Measles Cases and Outbreaks in the United States
Health Care Providers
Sept. 11, 2025
At a glance
During this COCA Call, presenters will discuss the current epidemiology of measles in the United States and address the most common questions from clinicians about preventing, identifying, and testing for measles. Presenters will also summarize measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination recommendations and considerations.
Overview
This year, record-breaking numbers of measles cases and outbreaks have been reported in the United States, despite measles being declared eliminated in 2000. While the risk of widespread measles remains low for the general population due to high population-level immunity, measles importations continue to occur. Outbreaks of three or more related cases continue to be reported, especially in communities with low vaccination coverage. Healthcare providers should remain vigilant to rapidly recognize measles and take steps to mitigate its spread.
During this COCA Call, presenters will discuss the current epidemiology of measles in the United States and address the most common questions from clinicians about preventing, identifying, and testing for measles. Presenters will also summarize measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination recommendations and considerations.
Webinar
Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
Time: 2:00–3:00 P.M. ET
A few minutes before the webinar begins, please click here to join.
Webinar ID: 862 4856 3488
Passcode: 745762
Or
Dial in using phone one-tap:
+16465588656,,86248563488#,,,,*745762#
+16469313860,,86248563488#,,,,*745762#
Or
Join using audio:
+1 646 558 8656
Presenters
CAPT David Sugerman, MD, MPH, FACEP, USPHS
Chief (Acting), Viral Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch
Division of Viral Diseases
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Adria Mathis, MSPH
Epidemiologist
Division of Viral Diseases
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Dan Filardo, MD
Medical Officer
Division of Viral Diseases
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
